As Spain face Argentina in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, tensions are running high both on and off the pitch. Spain defender Aymeric Laporte has accused Argentina of using dirty tricks and gamesmanship, while a banner displayed by Argentina players after their semi-final win over England has sparked a political row involving the Falkland Islands. Here is what you need to know about the controversies surrounding Argentina's behaviour at this World Cup.
Gamesmanship refers to actions that push the limits of the rules to gain a psychological edge over opponents, without technically breaking the laws of the game. Laporte told Spanish newspaper Marca that Argentina “like to leave a mark on their opponents” and that referees have allowed them to get away with it. He warned that if Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic does not clamp down, the final could descend into chaos. Spain captain Rodri, however, urged his teammates to ignore any provocations and play their own game.
“Explains gamesmanship and Falklands banner controversy at the World Cup final.”
The political controversy erupted after Argentina players celebrated their 2-1 semi-final win over England by holding up a banner that read “The Falklands are Argentine”. FIFA had confirmed before the match that flags with messages relating to the Islands would be banned from the stadium. The UK Government called for an investigation, with a spokesperson saying: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are.” Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey wrote an open letter to FIFA calling for the players involved to be suspended for the final. However, the White House has dismissed calls for bans, with President Donald Trump’s World Cup chief Andrew Giuliani arguing that Argentina were exercising freedom of expression – though that would not stop them from being sanctioned under FIFA rules.
This is not the first time Argentina have referenced the Falklands at a tournament. After their round of 16 win over Egypt, fans sang chants referring to the British overseas territory. In 2014, FIFA fined the Argentine Football Association £20,000 after players displayed a similar banner before a friendly against Slovenia. The current incident is being assessed by FIFA, which is “evaluating the match reports” before deciding on disciplinary action.
For UK readers, the controversies matter because they involve England’s historic rivals and touch on national sovereignty. The behaviour of fans is also relevant: despite the political tensions, England supporters in the US have been praised for their good conduct. The UK Football Policing Unit reported no violence or disorder involving England fans in America, with only two arrests in two weeks. The Football Supporters’ Association has set up a 24-hour hotline and provided guides to host cities, creating a positive atmosphere that contrasts with the darker side of football tribalism seen at Euro 2020.
Q: What is gamesmanship in football? Gamesmanship involves tactics like time-wasting, exaggerating injuries, or trying to provoke opponents into making mistakes. It is not illegal but can disrupt the flow of the game and anger rival teams. Laporte’s comments suggest Argentina have used such tactics throughout the tournament.
Q: Why is the Falklands banner controversial? The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory, and the UK government insists that self-determination rests with the islanders. Displaying a banner claiming the islands are Argentine is seen as a political statement. FIFA bans political messages at matches, so the banner could lead to sanctions against Argentina players.
Q: What could happen to Argentina if FIFA finds them guilty? FIFA could fine the Argentine FA, ban players from future matches, or impose other disciplinary measures. In 2014, a similar incident resulted in a £20,000 fine. The final is scheduled for Sunday, so any ban would likely apply afterwards unless FIFA takes unprecedented action.
What happens next? The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain takes place on Sunday. FIFA is expected to announce its decision on the banner investigation after the match. Meanwhile, referee Slavko Vincic will be under pressure to keep control of any gamesmanship from either side.
